Message from the Associate Dean of External Relations

I would like to take this time to welcome you to the Office of Field Placement. Field placement represents an essential and invaluable component to the professional development process for all candidates in the School of Education, Health and Human Services. The field hours required by specific classes enable students to actualize and implement their studies in their future fields. We strive to offer a plethora of opportunities for professional candidates in the areas of teacher education, health, and human services.

The Office of Field Placement is responsible for accepting and evaluating requests for field observations, clinical experiences, and student teaching. We collaborate with local schools, businesses, and programs to find placements, and provide continuous communication, assessment, and feedback during the process. We believe that students will be better prepared for their professional careers by being involved in field experiences that will expose them to a variety of cultures, economic backgrounds, and diverse settings. This will foster professional growth that will positively affect their abilities to become consummate professionals.

The staff of the Office of Field Placement must emphasize the critical role that the student plays in the field placement process. Communication and coordination is tantamount among all those involved in the process, including the student. All students must be cognizant of the fact that the placement process can be time consuming and it is essential to meet all deadlines. We do our best to provide the placement option that is the best match for the student in a high-quality approved site. It is also important that students realize that the placement process involves coordinating with the policies and regulations of schools, businesses, and programs so students must be flexible in terms of placement.  Students must also provide their own transportation to sites. 

The Office of Field Placement prides itself on courteous and compassionate service and the staff does their best to meet the individual needs of each student as much as possible within the limitations imposed by clerical partners. I hope that you take the time to explore our site to learn more about the purpose and process of field placement.  University supervisors and cooperating mentors will also find this website useful. The website contains polices, timelines, and frequently used, essential document and forms, all organized specifically for each professional involved in supporting School of Education, Health and Human Services students as they gain experience in the field component of their requirements.  Thank you and I wish you the best during this exciting time in your professional career.

Donna Levinson
Associate Dean for External Relations
School of Education, Health and Human Services
Hofstra University